Alek Skarlatos heads out of the DWTS studios with a smile on his face after practice in Los Angeles on Wednesday (November 18) and Thursday (November 19).

The 23-year-old soldier spoke with Fox News after the recent show and opened up about his patriotic waltz with partner Lindsay Arnold.

“We wanted to do something patriotic and I think it all came together pretty well. I liked it,” Alek shared. “Having my whole family here [to watch] was great. My grandpa came out for the show tonight, and Mike Moustakas [of the Kansas City Royals].”

He added about being partnered with Lindsay, “I’m so lucky. I’m so glad I have Lindsay as a partner and she took me this far.”